Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
When you send additional medical records to an insurer after a personal injury incident, you want a clear timeline and confirmation that the materials are under review. Following up promptly and systematically ensures your claim moves forward and reduces delays.
1. Note Maryland’s Timelines
Maryland’s Unfair Claim Settlement Practices Act (Md. Code Ann., Ins. § 27-303) prohibits insurers from unfairly delaying claim decisions. While the law does not set a strict deadline for every type of personal injury claim, many insurers commit to responding within 15–30 days of receiving new documentation.
Link to statute: Md. Code Ann., Ins. § 27-303.
2. Get Written Confirmation
Within a week of submitting records, send a short, polite email or letter to your adjuster. Reference your claim number, the date you mailed or uploaded documents, and ask for confirmation of receipt. If you don’t have the adjuster’s direct email, use the insurer’s general claims address and request they forward your message.
3. Keep a Detailed Log
Track every call, message, or email. Note the date, time, name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of what they said. This log can serve as evidence if you later allege unreasonable delay or bad-faith handling under Md. Code Ann., Ins. § 27-303.
4. Reference Maryland Insurance Regulations
If you encounter silence or vague answers, send a follow-up letter by certified mail. State that you are aware of the insurer’s obligations under § 27-303 and request a firm decision date. This formal tone often prompts a quicker review.
5. Escalate If Necessary
If the insurer still fails to respond within the timeframe they promised or 30 days from your document date, consider filing a complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration:
- Visit: File a Complaint
- Provide your complaint log, copies of correspondence, and a summary of the delay.
In many cases, the threat of administrative review brings insurers back to the table.
Helpful Hints
- Always include your claim number in every communication.
- Use clear, concise language: “Please confirm receipt of my medical records submitted on [date].”
- Send follow-up requests no more than one week apart to avoid confusion.
- Save digital copies of all medical reports in a single, clearly labeled folder.
- If you speak by phone, follow up in writing summarizing the call.
- Be aware of Maryland’s one-year statute of limitations for personal injury suits (Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101).
- Consider consulting an attorney if delays continue — many offer free initial consultations.